Blepharitis (pronounced /bl?f?r?a?t?s/) is an ocular disease characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins. Blepharitis may cause redness of the eyes, itching and irritation of the eyelids in one or both eyes. Its appearance is often confused with conjunctivitis and due to its recurring nature it is the most common cause of “recurrent conjunctivitis” in older people. It is also often mistaken for “dry eye” by patients due to the gritty sensation that may occur, however lubricating drops do little to improve the condition. Classification of Blepharitis There are two types of blepharitis: Anterior blepharitis affects the anterior margin (front) of the eyelid near the roots of the eyelashes. The causes are seborrheic dermatitis (similar to dandruff) and, more rarely, infection by Staphylococcus bacteria. Posterior blepharitis affects the posterior margin (back) of the eyelids, the part that makes contact with the eyes. This is caused by the oil glands present in this region. It is by far the most common type of blepharitis. Seborrheic blepharitis Seborrheic blepharitis, the most common type of blepharitis, is usually one part of the spectrum of seborrheic read more [...]